counterrevolutionary
|coun-ter-rev-o-lu-tion-ar-y|
/ˌkaʊntərəˌrɛvəˈluːnəri/
opposes a revolution
Etymology
'counterrevolutionary' originates from modern English as a compound of the prefix 'counter-' and the adjective 'revolutionary'. 'Counter-' ultimately comes via Old French and Latin 'contra' meaning 'against', and 'revolutionary' derives from 'revolution' (from Latin 'revolutio').
'counterrevolutionary' was formed in English by combining 'counter-' + 'revolutionary'. 'Revolutionary' developed from 'revolution' (from Latin 'revolutio'), which passed into Middle English via Old French 'revolution'. Over time English formed the adjective 'revolutionary' and then the compound 'counter-revolutionary' (later often written without a hyphen).
Initially built from elements meaning 'against' + 'revolution', the compound has consistently meant 'opposed to a revolution' or 'seeking to reverse revolutionary change'; its core meaning has remained stable though usage expanded into political and historical contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who opposes a revolution or who participates in efforts to overthrow or reverse a revolutionary government or movement.
During the unrest, several counterrevolutionaries were arrested for plotting to restore the old regime.
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Adjective 1
opposing or intended to oppose a revolution or revolutionary movements; opposing change brought by a revolution.
The party adopted a counterrevolutionary stance against the new reforms.
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Last updated: 2025/11/20 00:28